o have then to give just weight; and it is the terror
of the market-women for the same reason. Let it not be seen that thou
art (even if perchance thou art, which I do not believe) covetous, a
follower of women, or a glutton; for when the people and those that
have dealings with thee become aware of thy special weakness they will
bring their batteries to bear upon thee in that quarter, till they
have brought thee down to the depths of perdition. Consider and
reconsider, con and con over again the advice and the instructions I
gave thee before thy departure hence to thy government, and thou wilt
see that in them, if thou dost follow them, thou hast a help at hand
that will lighten for thee the troubles and difficulties that beset
governors at every step. Write to thy lord and lady, and show thyself
grateful to them: for ingratitude is the daughter of pride, and one of
the greatest sins we know of; and he who is grateful to those who have
been good to him shows that he will be so to God also, who has
bestowed and still bestows so many blessings upon him.

"My lady the duchess sent off a messenger with thy suit and another
present to thy wife Teresa Panza; we expect the answer every moment. I
have been a little indisposed through a certain scratching I came in
for, not very much to the benefit of my nose: but it was nothing; for
if there are enchanters who maltreat me, there are also some who
defend me. Let me know if the major-domo who is with thee had any
share in the Trifaldi performance, as thou didst suspect: and keep me
informed of everything that happens thee, as the distance is so short;
all the more as I am thinking of giving over very shortly this idle
life I am now leading, for I was not born for it. A thing has occurred
to me which I am inclined to think will put me out of favor with the
duke and duchess; but though I am sorry for it, I do not care, for
after all I must obey my calling rather than their pleasure, in
accordance with the common saying, _Amicus Plato, sed magis amica
veritas_. I quote this Latin to thee because I conclude that since
thou hast been a governor thou wilt have learned it. Adieu; God keep
thee from being an object of pity to any one.

"Thy friend

"DON QUIXOTE OF LA MANCHA."

Sancho listened to the letter with great attention, and it was praised
and considered wise by all who heard it: he then rose up from table,